United States Department of Agriculture

RE: AWA LICENSE RENEWAL

Dear Licensee: 

This is to remind you that your U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 

license to conduct regulated activity under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) 

license is due for renewal. 

Please complete and submit the enclosed application, credit card 

authorization, and tax identification form. You may submit online or via 

mail to the address found in the left column of this letter. Please do not 

submit duplicate renewal applications. 

The annual renewal fee is $40. You may pay by cashier's check, certified 

check, personal check or money order made payable to the United States 

Department of Agriculture. We cannot accept cash payments. You may 

also pay with a Visa or MasterCard, by submitting the enclosed credit 

card authorization form. Once your application and payment has been 

processed we will mail you a copy of your license certificate. 

Failure to submit your license renewal application in a timely manner will 

result in your license being canceled. If your license is canceled and you 

continue to conduct regulated activity you will be in violation of the AWA 

and subject to legal action. 

Please note that you must have an approved, complete, and up-to-date 

program of veterinary care form on file at your place of business. You 

can obtain blank forms -- or any others you may need -- online, directly 

from our office by using the enclosed forms order form, or from your 

USDA inspector. 

Contact this office at (970)494-7478 if you have any questions regarding 

this letter or the Animal Welfare Act. 

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Goldentyer, D. V. M. 

Deputy Administrator 

USDA, APHIS, Animal Care 

Animal and Plant

Health Inspection

Service

Animal Care

Fort Collins Office 

2150 Centre Avenue

Building B, 3W11 

Fort Collins, CO 80526

Phone: 970-494-7478

AnimalCare@usda.gov
This Packet is for: License Renewal Application 

This packet includes information needed to submit your application. 

Submission of the $40.00 application fee is required prior to processing your 

application. Animal Care accepts credit cards, checks, and money orders as 

payment. Animal Care cannot accept cash payments. 

We strongly recommend paying your licensing fee by credit card. You may 

submit a completed credit card authorization form today with your 

completed application. If you choose to pay by check or money order you 

must mail the payment to the Animal Care office, which could result in a 

delay processing your application. Your application will remain pending until 

payment is received.

After the application is signed and submitted, and Animal Care receives 

your payment, you can expect to hear from an Animal Care representative 

in approximately 15 business days.

If you have questions regarding the submission process, please contact 

Animal Care via email: AnimalCare@usda.gov

Required Forms:

• License Application: APHIS Form 7003A

• Federal Debt Collection Form: APHIS Form 7030

Optional Forms:

• Credit Card Authorization Form: APHIS Form 7031

• Animal Welfare Forms Order

Additional Information Enclosed For Your Reference Only:

• 3 Year AWA License Questions and Answers Tech Note (July 2020)
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 

ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICES

APPLICATION FOR LICENSE

(TYPE OR PRINT)

OFFICIAL USDA USE ONLY OMB Approved 0579-0470, Exp 06/2023

SEND THE COMPLETED FORM TO:

USDA APHIS ANIMAL CARE 

2150 CENTRE AVE. 

BUILDING B, 3W11

FORT COLLINS, CO 80526

LICENSE/CUSTOMER NUMBER EXPIRATION DATE DATE RECEIVED

No license shall be issued unless a completed application and appropriate fees are received, and the applicant is in compliance with the standards and 

regulations (7 U.S.C. §§ 2132-2143). A license may be denied or license terminated if the applicant has made false or fraudulent statements or provided false or 

fraudulent records to USDA (9 C.F.R §§ 2.11 and 2.12).

1. TYPE OF LICENSE:

CLASS A- BREEDER CLASS B- DEALER CLASS C- EXHIBITOR 

2. TYPE OF ORGANIZATION:

INDIVIDUAL PARTNERSHIP CORPORATION OTHER

3. NAME, MAILING ADDRESS, AND COUNTY (SEE INSTRUCTIONS): 4. ADDRESSES OF ALL LOCATIONS, FACILITIES, PREMISES, OR SITES

(P.O. BOX ADDRESSES ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE): Same as Block 1

COUNTY: COUNTY:

CHECK IF ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS ARE LISTED ON SEPARATE SHEET.

CHECK IF YOU WILL BE TRAVELING OVERNIGHT WITH ANIMALS.

5. TELEPHONE NUMBER(S): 6. EMAIL ADDRESS:

7. PREVIOUS USDA LICENSE NUMBER (IF ANY): 8. ACTIVE USDA LICENSE NUMBER IN WHICH YOU HAVE AN INTEREST:

9. VIOLATIONS AND NOLO CONTENDRE (9 C.F.R § 2.1(a)(1)(vii))

Disclose any pleas of nolo contendere (no contest) or finding of a violation of Federal, State, or local laws or regulations pertaining to animal cruelty or the transportation, 

ownership, neglect, or welfare of animals.

NONE YES, EXPLAIN (ATTACH ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OR RECORDS.)

10. IF THE APPLICANT IS A CORPORATION, PARTNERSHIP, OR OTHER BUSINESS ENTITY, LIST THE ENTITY’S OFFICERS AND AGENTS.

11. LIST THE ACTUAL OR ANTICIPATED TYPES AND MAXIMUM NUMBER OF ANIMALS OWNED, HELD, MAINTAINED, SOLD, EXHIBITED, OR LEASED AT ANY 

ONE TIME DURING THE PERIOD OF LICENSURE (9 CFR §2.1(a)(1)(i)): 

ANIMAL TYPE NUMBER ANIMAL TYPE NUMBER ANIMAL TYPE NUMBER

DOGS NONHUMAN PRIMATES (GROUPS 1-4)

§3.80(B)(2)(i) RHINOCEROSES

CATS NONHUMAN PRIMATES (GROUP5) 

§3.80(B)(2)(i) HIPPOPOTAMUSES

GUINEA PIGS NONHUMAN PRIMATES (GROUP 6) 

§3.80(B)(2)(i) GIRAFFES

HAMSTERS BEARS WILD/EXOTIC HOOFSTOCK

RABBITS EXOTIC/WILD FELIDS AND HYBRIDS MARINE MAMMALS

FARM ANIMALS (exclude horses) HYENAS, EXOTIC/WILD CANIDS AND

HYBRIDS TOTAL ANIMALS

OTHER ANIMALS (not listed elsewhere) ELEPHANTS

CHECK THIS BOX IF ADDITIONAL PAGES ARE USED TO LIST ANIMALS.

CERTIFICATION

I hereby make application for a license under the Animal Welfare Act 7 U.S.C. 2131 et seq. I certify that the information provided herein is true and correct to the best of my 

knowledge. I hereby certify that I have reviewed the Act, regulations, and standards. To the best of my knowledge and belief, I am in compliance with and agree to continue to 

comply with all the regulations and standards in 9 CFR, Subpart A, Parts 1, 2, and 3. I certify that I am and all listed persons are 18 years of age or older.

12. SIGNATURE: 13. PRINT NAME AND TITLE: 14. DATE:

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, an agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control 

number. The valid OMB control number for this information collection is 0579-0470. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average .25 hours per response, including the 

time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information.

APHIS FORM 7003A 

OCT 2020 

CHECK THIS BOX IF ADDITIONAL PERSONS ARE LISTED ON AN ADDITIONAL SHEET.

NAME TITLE
INSTRUCTIONS FOR LICENSE APPLICATION

(APHIS FORM 7003A & TAX IDENTIFICATION SHEET)

• Please read all instructions before completing the application and Tax ID sheet.

• Contact the USDA APHIS Animal Care office at 970-494-7478 for any questions.

• Corrections and/or clarifications will delay the processing of your application.

• ALL BLOCKS MUST BE COMPLETED; if one does not apply please put “N/A”. 

• ONLY send to the USDA APHIS Animal Care office: 

1. Application (APHIS FORM 7003A)

2. Tax ID sheet (Green sheet)

• Payments can be made by check, money order, or credit card. Cash is not accepted.

Completing the APHIS Form 7003A License Application:

Block 1: Check the box that best describes your business activity.

• Class A (breeder) – Sells only animals bred and raised at your facility.

• Class B (broker) – Buys and sells animals or is an operator of an auction.

• Class C (exhibitor) – Exhibits animals to the public.

Block 2: Check the box that best describes your business.

• Individual – Owner name only listed in Block 3.

• Partnership – Either partner’s name or business name listed in Block 3.

• Corporation or Other – Business name listed in Block 3.

Block 3: Complete this block with the applicant name mailing address, and county.

• Applicant means the name the license will be under.

If applying as an Individual, put the individual’s name only.

If applying as a Partnership, please either list all partner’s names or the business 

name.

If applying as Corporation or Other, list the business name only.

• Mailing Address refers to the address all correspondences will be mailed to. 

Cannot be left blank, and can include only one address.

Include the county that the business address is in.

Block 4: List the addresses of all locations, facilities, premises, or sites where the animals, 

equipment, vehicles, and records are or will be located.

• P.O. Boxes cannot be listed in this Block.

• Include the county that the address is located.

• If necessary, use an additional sheet if more than one address.

Block 5: List the telephone number where the applicant can be reached.

Block 6: List the email address that is used to send and receive electronic correspondence to 

the applicant/licensee.
Block 7: Complete this block if you had a previous license number.

Block 8: Complete this block if you have a business interest in another active USDA license.

Block 9: Disclose if you have any animal violations or have pled no contest to animal incidents.

If yes, describe the incident(s) and attach additional information or records, if 

necessary.

Block 10: Complete this block with all officers authorized to conduct business for the license.

• If applying as an Individual, this block does not need to be completed.

• If applying as a Partnership, 

Under owners’ names this block does not need to be completed.

Under the business name list all names authorized to conduct business for this 

license.

Owner cannot be used as a title.

• Indicate the person who should be listed as the attention person for receiving mail. 

If applying as a Corporation or Other;

List all names authorized to conduct business for this license. 

Owner cannot be used as a title.

Indicate the person who should be listed as the attention person for receiving mail.

Block 11: List the actual or anticipated number of animals for each types of animals in the 

businesses inventory.

• For animals listed under Group 5 Nonhuman primates include baboons and nonbrachiating species larger than 33.0 lbs. (15 kg.).

• For animals listed under Group 6 Nonhuman primates include great apes over 55.0 

lbs. (25 kg.) and brachiating species.

Block 12-14: Complete these blocks with an authorized person’s signature, name, title, and date the 

application is signed.
Privacy Act Notice 

Authority: The Animal Welfare Act (AWA), 7 U.S.C. 2131 et seq., and the regulations issued thereunder, 9 CFR parts 1 through 4; and the Horse 

Protection Act (HPA), 15 U.S.C. 1821 et seq., and the regulations issued thereunder, 9 CFR parts 11 and 12. 

Purpose: This system supports APHIS’ administrative activities and enforcement of the AWA and HPA. 

Routine Uses:

In addition to those disclosures generally permitted under 5 U.S.C. 552a (b) of the Privacy Act, records maintained in the system may be disclosed 

outside USDA as follows: 

(1) APHIS may disclose the name, city, State, license or registration type and/or status, or change of a license or registrant to any person 

pursuant to 9 CFR 2.38(c) and 2.127; 

(2) APHIS may disclose annual reports submitted to APHIS by licensees and research facilities to any person pursuant to 9 CFR 2.7 and 2.36; 

(3) APHIS may disclose inspection reports and other regulatory correspondence issued to licensees and registrants [from the agency] to any 

attending veterinarian in order to carry out duties under the AWA pursuant to 9 CFR 2.33 and 2.40; 

(4) APHIS may disclose the name, telephone number and other contact information, location, inspection reports, and regulatory and other 

correspondence of licensees, registrants, permitees, and applicants for the same, to appropriate Federal, foreign, State, local, Tribal, or other 

public authority agencies or officials, in order to carry out duties under the AWA or State, local, Tribal or other public authority on the same 

subject pursuant to 7 U.S.C. 2145(b); 

(5) APHIS may disclose inspection reports of licensees and registrants, and permit status, to any pet store or other entity that is required under 

State, local, Tribal, or other public authority to verify a licensee, registrant, or permitee’s compliance with the AWA;

(6) APHIS may disclose information to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, and any other research institution 

engaged or approved by the Department, to the extent APHIS deems the disclosure necessary to complete research and/or compile a report 

in furtherance of the Department’s mission; 

(7) APHIS may disclose final adjudicatory AWA and HPA decisions or orders by an appropriate authority to any person; 

(8) APHIS may disclose to any person the name, city, and State or other information to the extent necessary for proper identification of persons 

(referred to as “Designated Qualified Persons” or “DQPs”) that are or have been qualified to detect and diagnose a horse that is sore or 

otherwise inspect horses for purposes of enforcing the HPA and of horse industry organizations or associations (referred to as “HIOs”) that 

have currently or have had in the past DQP programs certified by the USDA; 

(9) APHIS may disclose to any regulated horse owner, HIO, and other entities responsible for licensure or required to verify compliance with the 

HPA, HPA inspection findings and regulatory and other correspondence issued to persons or entities regulated under the HPA;

(10) APHIS may disclose to any person the name, city, and State or other information to the extent necessary for proper identification of any 

person or entity who has been disqualified, suspended, and/or otherwise prohibited from showing or exhibiting any horse, or judging or 

managing any horse show, horse exhibition, horse sale, or horse auction under the HPA and the terms of such action; 

(11) APHIS may disclose to any person the name, city, and State or other information to the extent necessary for proper identification of any 

regulated individual or entity whose license or permit has been suspended, revoked, expired, terminated, or denied under the AWA and the 

terms of such action; 

(12) APHIS may disclose to appropriate law enforcement agencies, entities, and persons, whether Federal, foreign, State, local, or Tribal, or other 

public authority responsible for enforcing, investigating, or prosecuting an alleged violation or a violation of law or charged with enforcing, 

implementing, or complying with a statute, rule, regulation, or order issued pursuant thereto, when a record in this system on its face, or in 

conjunction with other records, indicates a violation or potential violation of law, whether civil, criminal, or regulatory in nature, and whether 

arising by general statute or particular program statute, or by regulation, rule, or court order issued pursuant thereto, if the information 

disclosed is relevant to any enforcement, regulatory, investigative, or prosecutive responsibility of the receiving entity; 

(13) APHIS may disclose to the Department of Justice when the agency, or any component thereof, or any employee of the agency in his or her 

official capacity, or any employee of the agency in his or her individual capacity where the Department of Justice has agreed to represent the 

employee, or the United States, in litigation, where the agency determines that litigation is likely to affect the agency or any of its components, 

is a party to litigation or has an interest in such litigation, and the use of such records by the Department of Justice is deemed by the agency to 

be relevant and necessary to the litigation; provided, however, that in each case, the agency determines that disclosure of the records to the 

Department of Justice is a use of the information contained in the records that is compatible with the purpose for which the records were 

collected; 

(14) APHIS may disclose information in this system of records to a court or adjudicative body in administrative, civil, or criminal proceedings when: 

(a) The agency or any component thereof; or (b) any employee of the agency in his or her official capacity; or (c) any employee of the agency 

in his or her individual capacity where the agency has agreed to represent the employee; or (d) the United States Government, is a party to 

litigation or has an interest in such litigation, and by careful review, the agency determines that the records are to be for a purpose that is 

compatible with the purpose for which the agency collected the records; 

(15) APHIS may disclose information from this system of records to appropriate agencies, entities, and persons when: (a) USDA suspects or has 

confirmed that there has been a breach of the system of records; (b) USDA has determined that as a result of the suspected or confirmed 

breach there is a risk of harm to individuals, USDA (including its information systems, programs, and operations), the Federal Government, or 

national security; and (c) the disclosure made to such agencies, entities, and persons is reasonably necessary to assist in connection with 

USDA’s efforts to respond to the suspected or confirmed compromise and prevent, minimize, or remedy such harm; 

(16) APHIS may disclose information from this system of records to another Federal agency or Federal entity, when the USDA determines that 

information from this system of records is reasonably necessary to assist the recipient agency or entity in (a) responding to a suspected or 

confirmed breach or (b) preventing, minimizing, or remedying the risk of harm to individuals, the recipient agency or entity (including its 

information systems, programs, and operations), the Federal Government, or national security, resulting from a suspected or confirmed 

breach; 

(17) APHIS may disclose information in this system of records to USDA contractors and other parties engaged to assist in administering the 

program, analyzing data, developing information management systems, processing Freedom of Information Act requests, and conducting 

audits. Such contractors and other parties will be bound by the nondisclosure provisions of the Privacy Act; 

(18) APHIS may disclose information in this system of records to USDA contractors, partner agency employees or contractors, or private industry 

employed to identify patterns, trends, or anomalies indicative of fraud, waste, or abuse; 

(19) APHIS may disclose information in this system of records to a Congressional office from the record of an individual in response to any inquiry 

from that Congressional office made at the written request of the individual to whom the record pertains; 

(20) APHIS may disclose information in this system of records to the National Archives and Records Administration or to the General Services 

Administration for records management activities conducted under 44 U.S.C. 2904 and 2906; and 

(21) APHIS may disclose information in this system of records to the Treasury Department as necessary to carry out any and all functions within 

their jurisdiction, including but not limited to, processing payments, fees, collections, penalties, and offsets. 

Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary; however, failure to furnish this information may impede your ability to comply with the requirements 

of the Animal Welfare Act, regulations, and standards. 
 

Additional Locations, Facilities, Premises, or Sites

If you checked “Additional locations are listed on separate sheet” in box 4, 

then please use this template to provide the supplemental information. 

P.O. Box addresses are not acceptable. Applications listing P.O. boxes will be returned. 

Additional Site 1: 

Site Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Address Line 3

City 

State 

County

Zip Code

Phone

Additional Site 2: 

Site Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Address Line 3

City 

State 

County

Zip Code

Phone

Additional Site 3: 

Site Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Address Line 3

City 

State 

County

Zip Code

Phone
 

Additional Site 4: 

Site Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Address Line 3

City 

State 

County

Zip Code

Phone

Additional Site 5: 

Site Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Address Line 3

City 

State 

County

Zip Code

Phone

Additional Site 6: 

Site Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Address Line 3

City 

State 

County

Zip Code

Phone

Additional Site 7: 

Site Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Address Line 3

City 

State 

County

Zip Code

Phone
 

Additional Site 8: 

Site Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Address Line 3

City 

State 

County

Zip Code

Phone

Additional Site 9: 

Site Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Address Line 3

City 

State 

County

Zip Code

Phone

Additional Site 10: 

Site Name

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

Address Line 3

City 

State 

County

Zip Code

Phone

Check if additional locations are listed on separate sheet.
 

Additional Persons

If you checked “Additional persons are listed on an additional sheet” in box 

10, then please use this template to provide the supplemental information. 

Box 10. Separate Sheet for Listing Additional Persons

Additional Person 1:

Name

Title

Additional Person 2: 

Name

Title

Additional Person 3: 

Name

Title

Additional Person 4: 

Name

Title

Additional Person 5: 

Name

Title

Additional Person 6: 

Name

Title

Additional Person 7: 

Name

Title

Check if additional persons are listed on separate sheet.
APHIS Form 7030 

OCT 2018

According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, an agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is

not required to, a collection of information unless it displays a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB 

control number for this information collection is 0579-0036. The time required to complete this information

collection is estimated to average .25 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions,

searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing

the collection of information.

OMB Approved 

0579-0036

United States Department of Agriculture

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Animal Care

Federal Debt Collection Form

1: State 2: Customer Number:

3. Certificate Number:

The Federal Debt Collection Act of 1996 requires APHIS to obtain your Federal Taxpayer Identification Number.

This would be either your Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) or your Social Security Number(s)

(SSN). This number is for the purpose of collecting and reporting any delinquent amounts arising out of a 

relationship with the Federal Government. Your SSN or EIN is required to process your license/registration 

application.

New license/registration applications: You must submit your SSN or EIN using this form.

Renewing license/registration applications:

• You must resubmit your SSN or EIN number using this form.

• If the number submitted does not match your previously submitted EIN or SSN, your application for

license/registration renewal will be returned with instructions and your renewal delayed.

• If your SSN, EIN, and/or type of organization changes, you may have to apply for a new

license/registration.

If the license/registration certificate is issued to a corporation or partnership, all partners’ names and SSN or EIN 

must be listed.

4: Business Name or Individual Name or Partner

Name:

5: Federal Taxpayer Identification Number

Name: EIN or SSN:

Name: EIN or SSN:

Name: EIN or SSN:

Name: EIN or SSN:

Name: EIN or SSN:

Name: EIN or SSN:

Name: EIN or SSN:

Name: EIN or SSN:
APHIS Form 7030 

OCT 2018

Instructions: Federal Debt Collection Form

• Please read all instructions before completing the Federal Debt Collection form.

• Contact your USDA APHIS Animal Care office before mailing your application.

• Corrections and/or clarifications will delay the processing of your application.

• All blocks must be completed; if one does not apply please put “N/A”.

• Mail in all original documents. We cannot accept applications that are copied, e-mailed, or

faxed.

• Complete the application in Blue or Black ink.

• Mail in with the application and appropriate fees.

Block 1: Insert the State of the business address of the licensee/registrant.

Block 2: Insert the customer number.

Block 3: Insert the certificate number.

Block 4 and 5: Insert the name of the individual, business, partnership, corporation, or other i.e.

John Smith; John Smith Kennels; JS Kennels; JS Kennels, Inc.

(a) If an Individual; write the individual’s Social Security Number.

(b) If a Partnership; write either all partner’s names and Social Security Numbers or

the business name and Employee Identification Number.

(c) A Corporation or Other; write the business name and Employee Identification Number.
	
	
	
								
								
		
		
				
		
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ANIMAL WELFARE FORMS ORDER

This is an optional document. You may access all forms and publications 

free of charge on our website: USDA APHIS | Publications, Forms and 

Guidance Documents. If you would like to request that Animal Care email 

or mail documents directly to you, please complete the information below.

Customer Information

Name: _______________________________________________________________

Business Name: _______________________________________________________

USDA Certificate or Customer Number, if applicable: __________________________

Address: _____________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip: ________________________________________________________

Area Code & Phone #: __________________________________________________

Distribution Preference (select one): Email Mail

Animal Care Forms:

Form # Name of Form # Requested

7002 Program of Vet Care- Other than Dogs and Cats ___________

7002A Program of Vet Care- For Dogs and Cats ___________

7005 Record of Dogs & Cats on Hand ___________

7006 Record of Disposition of Dogs and Cats ___________

7006A Continuation Sheet of Disposition of Dogs and Cats ___________

7019 Record of Animals on Hand- Other than Dogs and Cats ___________

7020 Record of Disposition of Animals- Other than Dogs and Cats ___________

7020A Continuation Sheet of Record of Disposition of Animals ___________

7013 Exercise Plan for Dogs ___________

7010 Itinerary of Exhibition for Overnight Travel ___________

- Animal Welfare Act and Regulations (Blue Book) ___________

- Live Animal Stickers for Pet Transportation ___________

Animal Care Publications:

Publication Name # Requested

Animal Welfare Act Factsheet ___________

1979 Marine Mammal Final Rule ___________

Animal Care Creates New Process for Appeal Animal Welfare Act Inspection 

Reports

___________

Daily Observation of Regulated Animals ___________

Upholding the Animal Welfare Act ___________

Questions and Answers: Dog Activities Requiring a USDA 

License/Registration

___________

Using Cage Cards to Identify Puppies and Kitties ___________

Temperature and Humidity in Dog Kennels ___________

Minimum Space Requirements for Dogs ___________

Options for Identification of Dogs & Cats ___________

Submission of Itineraries Factsheet ___________
Page 1 of 3

July 2020

Questions and Answers:

Three-Year Animal Welfare Act (AWA)

License

Q. When will I have to obtain the three-year license?

A. All current licensees will be randomly assigned the 

year in which their license will transition to the threeyear license. In August 2020 licensees will be notified 

of the year in which their license will transition to a 

three-year license. They will keep the same license 

expiration month and day.

Beginning on November 9, 2020, all licensees will 

pay a $40 one-year license renewal fee. Beginning 

on October 1, 2021, one-third of the renewing 

licensees will be notified via U.S. mail 120 days 

before the start of their renewal month that their 

license will become a three-year license. Beginning 

on October 1, 2022, another third of the remaining 

licensees will transition to the three-year license. 

Beginning on October 1, 2023, the remaining 

licensees will transition to the three-year license. The 

three-year license fee is $120.

After November 9, 2020, any applicant that does not 

currently have an AWA license will be required to 

apply for a three-year license during the initial 

application process, regardless of calendar year.

No license will be issued until the applicant pays the 

license fee and demonstrates upon inspection that 

the animals, premises, facilities, vehicles, equipment, 

locations, and records are in compliance with all 

applicable requirements in the Act and the 

regulations and standards in this subchapter.

Q. How do I get an application to apply for a 

license? 

A. You may download a license application package 

on-line or call the Animal Care office in Fort Collins, 

CO at (970) 494-7478: After November 9, 2020 the 

downloadable application form found online can be 

used for a 3- year new license and a 1-year renewal

of license. A cover sheet will be provided with your 

application fee.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalwel

fare/sa_regulated_businesses/sa_request_license_re

gistration_application_kit

Q. Can I apply for a license on-line?

A. No, not at this time. Please send the

application forms to the address provided in the

kit instructions.

Q. Where do I send the application?

A. Once the application is filled out and ready to

submit, send it to:

 USDA-APHIS-Animal Care

2150 Centre Avenue Building B Mailstop

3W11

Fort Collins, CO 80526-8117

Email: animalcare@usda.gov

Phone: (970) 494-7478

Q. What is the deadline for submitting the

license application for the three-year license?

A. The licensee must submit the application and

pay the $120 license fee 90 days before your

license expiration date to ensure timely

processing of the new license. The pre-license

inspection(s) must be passed prior to their

license expiration date.

Q. My license is expiring in less than 90 days

and I have not yet received notice via U.S.

mail. What do I do?

A. You may contact the Animal Care office in

Fort Collins, CO at:

USDA-APHIS-Animal Care

2150 Centre Avenue Building B Mailstop

3W11

Fort Collins, CO 80526-8117

Email: animalcare@usda.gov

Phone: (970) 494-7478

The renewal application and instructions, including 

where to send the application, can be obtained online 

at:https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalwel

fare/sa_regulated_businesses/sa_request_license_regis

tration_application_kit, or by contacting your local 

inspector or the Fort Collins office.
Page 2 of 3

Q. Is the pre-licensing inspection announced or 

unannounced? 

A. All pre-licensing inspections are announced. The 

date and time are agreed upon by the applicant and the 

inspector. 

Q. How many chances do I get to pass the prelicensing inspections? 

A. The applicant has up to three pre-licensing 

inspections within 60 days to demonstrate compliance 

with the AWA. If the first inspection reveals that the 

applicant’s animals, premises, facilities, vehicles, 

equipment, locations, or records do not meet the 

applicable requirements, USDA will advise the applicant 

of existing deficiencies and the corrective measures that 

must be completed to come into compliance with the 

regulations and standards. An applicant may request up 

to two more inspections by USDA to demonstrate his or 

her compliance with the Act and the regulations and 

standards.

Q. What if I don’t pass the third pre-licensing 

inspection? 

A. Any applicant who has not demonstrated compliance 

with the requirements by the third prelicensing 

inspection may appeal all or part of the inspection 

findings to the Deputy Administrator. To appeal, the 

applicant must send a written statement contesting the 

inspection finding(s) and include any documentation or 

other information in support of the appeal. To receive 

consideration, the appeal must be received by the 

Deputy Administrator within 7 days of the date the 

applicant received the third pre-licensing inspection 

report. Within 7 days of receiving a timely appeal, the 

Deputy Administrator will issue a written response to 

notify the applicant whether APHIS will issue a license 

or deny the application. If the Deputy Administrator 

denies the appeal there may be additional appeal 

opportunities.

Q. Where do I send the appeal? 

A. All appeals can be sent to: 

Dr. Elizabeth Goldentyer 

APHIS Animal Care (AC) 

U.S. Department of Agriculture 

4700 River Road/6D-03F 

Riverdale, MD 20787

Email: animalcareappeals@usda.gov

Q. If I don’t pass my pre-licensing inspection, how 

long do I have to wait to reapply? 

A. Six months from the date of the failed inspection or 

six months from the expiration of the time to request an 

inspection.

Q. What happens if my application is denied? 

A. An applicant whose initial license application has 

been denied may request a hearing in accordance with 

the applicable rules of practice for the purpose of 

showing why the application for license should not be 

denied. The denial of an initial license application shall 

remain in effect until the final decision has been 

rendered. Should the license denial be upheld, the 

applicant may again apply for a license one year from 

the date of the final order denying the application, 

unless the order provides otherwise.

Q. What happens if there are changes to the 

business? 

A. Licenses are issued to specific persons, specific 

activities, types and numbers of animals, and approved 

sites. A new license must be obtained upon change of 

ownership, location, activities, or animals. A licensee 

shall notify Animal Care no fewer than 90 days and 

obtain a new license before any change in the name, 

address, substantial control or ownership of his 

business or operation, locations, activities, or number or 

type of animals.

Q. What happens if I obtain more or different 

animals?

A. The applicant shall include on the license application, 

among other information, the anticipated maximum 

number of animals to be on hand at any one time during 

the period of licensure and the anticipated type of 

animals to be owned, held, maintained, sold, or 

exhibited, including those animals leased, during the 

period of licensure. Licenses authorize increments of 50 

animals on hand at any single point in time during the 

period of licensure. A licensee must obtain a new 

license before any change resulting in more than the 

authorized number of animals on hand at any single 

point in time during the period of licensure.

Licenses authorize the use of dogs, cats, guinea pigs, 

hamsters, rabbits, nonhuman primates, marine 

mammals, and other species. Licenses must specifically 

authorize the use of baboons and nonbrachiating 

species larger than 33 lbs.; great apes over 55 lbs. and 

brachiating species; exotic and wild felids (including but 

not limited to lions, tigers, leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, 

cougars, lynx, servals, bobcats, and caracals, and any 

hybrid cross thereof); hyenas and/or exotic and wild

canids (including but not limited to wolves, coyotes, 
Page 3 of 3

foxes, and jackals); bears; and mega-herbivores 

(including but not limited to elephants, rhinoceroses, 

hippopotamuses, and giraffes). A licensee must obtain a 

new license before using any animal beyond those types 

or numbers of animals authorized under the existing 

license.

Q. How often will I be inspected after I receive my 

license?

A. The frequency of inspection is dependent on types of 

animals, past inspection history, and other risk factors. 

Facilities should expect at least one inspection a year.

Q. When can I expect unannounced inspections to 

occur?

A. USDA is authorized to conduct unannounced 

inspections during a reasonable number of hours 

between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. each week of the year.

USDA coordinates with licensees and registrants who do 

not maintain regular public business hours to establish 

optimal times for inspection.

Q. What does the three-year license cost?

A. All AWA applicants and licensees will pay a flat 

licensing fee of $120 for the three-year license. There is 

no refund of the fee if the licensing process is 

abandoned or the license is denied. 

Q. How do I pay the three-year license fee?

A. The applicant may pay the fee by certified check, 

cashier's check, personal check, money order, or credit 

card. An applicant whose check is returned by a bank 

will be charged a fee of $20 for each returned check. If 

an applicant's check is returned, subsequent fees must 

be paid by certified check, cashier's check, money order 

or credit card.

Q. Can I change my one-year license to a 3- year 

license right away?

A. No, transition your license to the three-year license in 

the year in which you are assigned. This will allow USDA 

to complete the licensing process smoothly and on time.

Q. Is there a difference in the licensing inspection 

process for entities that currently hold a license vs a 

new applicant?

A. Yes, entities that are currently licensed are familiar 

with the regulations and standards. They have already 

passed a ‘prelicense inspection’, are conducting 

regulated activities, and are expected to be maintaining 

compliance. Entities that are not currently licensed are 

not conducting regulated activities. For them the prelicense process is an opportunity to become familiar with 

the regulations and what is required to keep their facility 

in compliance and decide if they wish to be licensed to 

conduct regulated activities. Therefore, current licensees 

must pass a “Re-license” inspection while new

applicants must pass a “Pre-license” inspection prior to 

issuance of their license.

Q. What is the difference between a “Relicense” 

inspection and a “Pre-license” inspection?

A. Both types require full compliance with the AWA to 

pass the announced inspection. During a “pre-license” 

inspection, noncompliances cited on the inspection 

report will not be labeled as critical, direct, or repeat, 

photos and videos will be taken during the 3rd prelicense inspection but will not be posted to the Public 

Search Tool. During the “re-license” inspection, the 

critical, direct, or repeat designation will be used when 

applicable, photos will be taken as needed and the 

reports will be posted to the Public Search Tool after a 

21-day opportunity for appeal.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Page 1 of 2

July 2020

Questions and Answers: Access to Potable 

Water for Dogs and Cats 

Q. What access do animals need to potable water?

A. Dogs must have continuous access to potable 

drinking water at all times unless restricted by the 

attending veterinarian. This includes evenings, 

weekends, and holidays. The regulation for watering 

cats has not changed. Cats must be offered potable 

water as necessary to ensure their health and wellbeing, 

but not less than twice daily for a minimum of 1 hour 

each time, unless restricted by the attending veterinarian 

or an IACUC approved protocol.

Q. Are there any circumstances that water can be 

restricted?

A. Yes, water restrictions may be approved by your 

Attending Veterinarian (AV) or an IACUC approved 

protocol.

Q. What is potable water?

A. The definition of potable water has not changed by 

the new regulation. Potable water is water that is safe to 

drink and will not cause illness or injury if consumed. 

The presence of debris, dirt, algae, animal waste, or 

other organic matter can be an indicator the water is 

contaminated. If the water cannot be reasonably 

assumed to be potable, the water should be replaced 

with potable water. Other indications of contaminated 

water include; cloudy or colored water, water giving off 

an odor, an oil film on top of the water, or if the animals 

seem reluctant to drink the water. Testing can be 

performed to determine the safety of the water.

Q. Are there specific ways to provide continuous 

water as required by the regulation?

A. No, there are no specific watering systems that are 

required. Any combination of personnel and equipment 

can be used if the system provides clean, potable water 

in clean vessels/containers to the dogs or cats. The 

water must be delivered on demand or at all times, with 

bowls refilled as needed for dogs. To prevent spilling 

and empty bowls that might result, licensees and 

registrants should consider equipment that prevents

tipping of the bowls. Licensees and registrants that 

utilize an automatic water system, such as the use of a 

lixit faucet waterer, should check the system regularly to 

assure that it is working properly and delivering water 

continually.

Q. If my dog just tipped over and spilled the water 

bowl and my inspector shows up to conduct an 

inspection will this be seen as non-compliant?

A. The regulations require that you provide dogs with 

continuous access to potable drinking water at all times. 

If during an inspection there are dogs that do not have 

access to water, this will be considered a 

noncompliance. There may be circumstances where the 

water bowl has just spilled, you should discuss options 

with your inspector.

Veterinary Care Requirements for Dogs

Q. When do I need an Attending Veterinarian? 

A. The regulation has not change for Attending 

Veterinarians. All licensees and registered research 

facilities are required to have an Attending Veterinarian 

(§2.40; §2.33) 

Q. When do I need a written Program of Veterinary 

Care?

A. A written Program of Veterinary Care is always 

needed, and a signed copy should be kept at the 

licensed or registered facility. 

Q. What is required on the written Program of 

Veterinary Care?

A. For facilities with dogs, written formal arrangements 

must be made and signed by the Attending Veterinarian 

that includes the following; regularly scheduled annual 

visits, complete physical annual exams of each dog by 

the Attending Veterinarian, a schedule for vaccinations 

for contagious and/or deadly diseases of dogs (including 

rabies, parvovirus and distemper), a schedule for 

sampling and treatment of parasites and other pests 

(including fleas, worms, coccidia, giardia, and 

heartworm), and preventative care and treatment for 

healthy hair coats, nails, eyes, ears, skin, and teeth. 

Lastly, the written program of veterinary care must 

address the requirements for adequate veterinary care

for every dealer and exhibitor in § 2.40 of this 

subchapter and every research facility in § 2.33 of this 

subchapter, and § 3.13 of this subchapter for dogs. A 

signed copy of the written program of veterinary care 

should be kept at the licensed or registered facility. 
Page 2 of 2

Q. Is a specific form for the written Program of 

Veterinary Care for Dogs needed?

A. No, however the APHIS Form 7002A, Program of 

Veterinary Care for Dogs, can be used but is not 

required. This form is available on-line at 

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/library/forms/pdf/aphis 

7002a.pdf. The form is a fillable .pdf file. It can also be 

printed or downloaded for your convenience. You can 

use this form or another method that meets the 

requirements.

Q. How often do dogs need to be examined by the 

attending veterinarian? 

A. According to Section 3.13, dogs must have a 

complete physical examination not less than once every 

12 months. 

Q. Must the Attending Veterinarian conduct every 

head to tail exam on every dog? 

A. No, the Attending Veterinarian can delegate authority 

to another veterinarian to complete this work. 

Q. Does the Attending Veterinarian have to come out 

to my facility? 

A. Yes, the Attending Veterinarian has to make regularly 

scheduled visits not less than every 12 months to all 

premises where animals are kept. 

Q. What does my Program of Veterinary Care have to 

include if I have dogs and other animals? 

A. You have to meet the new requirements for dogs in 

the Program of Veterinary Care and you still have to 

meet the requirements under §2.40 for licensees (§2.33 

for registrants) for other species. 

Q. Do I need to have medical records for dogs? 

A. Yes, Medical records are now required for all dogs. 

Routine husbandry procedures, such as vaccinations, 

preventive medical procedures, or treatments, performed 

on all dogs in a group, may be kept on a single record. 

Copies of the medical records should be kept at the 

facility for review by the APHIS inspector.

Q. What should be included in the medical records? 

A. Section 3.13(b) outlines the minimum information 

needed in the medical record. 

Q. Is there a specific form or system I need to use 

for the medical records? 

A. No, there is no specific form or format required to be 

used as long as the information requested in §3.13b is 

used. Records should be logical and legible. Copies of 

the records should be kept at the facility for review by 

the APHIS inspector. 

Q. Where should medical records be kept? 

A. Copies of the medical records should be kept at the 

facility and be readily accessible for review by the APHIS 

inspector. Traveling exhibitors should keep copies of the 

records while in travel status or be able to provide them 

to the inspector. 

Q. How long should medical records for dogs be 

kept? 

A. Medical records for dogs shall be kept and 

maintained by the dealer or exhibitor for at least 1 year 

after the dog is euthanized or disposed of, and any 

period in excess of 1 year to comply with Federal, State, 

or local law. Medical records for dogs shall be kept and 

maintained by the research facility for the duration of the 

research activity, and for an additional 3 years after the 

dog is euthanized or disposed of, or any period in 

excess of 3 years to comply with Federal, State of local 

laws.

Q. What vaccinations are required for the dogs? 

A. In §3.13(a)(3) the vaccinations specifically mentioned 

include rabies, parvovirus and distemper, unless 

otherwise required by a research protocol approved by 

the IACUC at research facilities. In accordance with the 

schedule provided by or any additional vaccines required 

by the Attending Veterinarian. 

Q. Who is required to sign the Program of Veterinary 

Care for it to be compliant? 

A. The Attending Veterinarian is required to sign the 

Program of Veterinary Care. 

Q. What routine preventative care do I need to 

perform for dogs? 

A. Routine preventative care includes maintaining a 

healthy and unmatted hair coat, properly trimmed nails,

and clean and healthy eyes, ears, skin, and teeth. In 

addition, skin must be observed and cared for to address 

skin conditions and ectoparasites such as fleas and 

mites. Dogs should be routinely dewormed in 

accordance with a written Program of Veterinary Care. 

Heartworm prevention should also be administered as 

prescribed by the Attending Veterinarian.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.